Uniting Cultures, Forging Memories: UP Tomo-Kai’s “Buklod” Interactive Exhibit Bridges Filipino and Japanese Traditions

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a resounding celebration of its 35th anniversary, UP Tomo-Kai, the University of the Philippines’ premier socio-cultural organization dedicated to Philippine-Japan friendship, ignites its series of commemorative events with Buklod: An Interactive Exhibit. Taking place on May 13, 2025 at Alcantara Hall, Student Union Building, UP Diliman, this cultural showcase promises an immersive experience that brings together the beauty of two vibrant cultures in one dynamic, hands-on display.

Buklod: More Than Just an Exhibit

“Buklod” — a Filipino word meaning to bond or unite — lives up to its name by becoming a powerful emblem of cultural convergence. Open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, the exhibit invites students, faculty, alumni, and guests beyond the campus to explore the best of Japanese and Filipino traditions, brought to life through interactive booths, live performances, and workshops.

Hosted by UP Tomo-Kai in collaboration with Filipica and other cultural partner organizations, Buklod is more than a static gallery. It is a living, breathing cultural encounter — a celebration of heritage where every guest becomes a participant, not just a spectator.

Visitors can try on authentic kimonos, have their names written in kanji calligraphy, fold intricate origami, and play timeless Filipino childhood games. Lovers of Japanese flavors can also sample and purchase popular items like matcha products, adding a flavorful twist to the journey.

A Dance of Unity: Sōran Bushi in Motion

A major highlight of the exhibit is the live performance of the iconic Sōran Bushi, a traditional Japanese fisherman’s dance known for its powerful rhythm and expressive movements. Performed by UP Tomo-Kai’s own Dance Troupe, the presentation will not only entertain but also educate.

After the showcase, attendees will be invited to join a Sōran Bushi workshop, giving them the rare opportunity to learn the cultural story behind every movement — a celebration of unity, hard work, and resilience. The shared rhythm of dance becomes a metaphor for the shared values between Filipino and Japanese identities.

A Prelude to Something Greater: The Road to Halina

While Buklod serves as a cultural cornerstone, it is also a prelude to UP Tomo-Kai’s grand culminating event: Halina: A Cultural Night, scheduled on May 16, 2025 at the Sunken Garden, UP Diliman.

Buklod isn’t just a standalone event — it’s a passionate invitation. As UP Tomo-Kai continues to honor decades of friendship and cultural exchange, Buklod stands as the heartbeat of Amakyō: Festival of Memories, this year’s two-week anniversary celebration. Every kimono fitted, every game played, every dance move learned is a step closer to the grand finale where Filipino fiesta meets Japanese matsuri in an explosive celebration of identity and camaraderie.

A Celebration Rooted in Legacy

Founded in 1990, UP Tomo-Kai has grown into more than just an organization — it is a cultural bridge, nurturing mutual understanding between the Philippines and Japan. From assisting Japanese exchange students and hosting educational seminars, to curating exhibits and organizing grand cultural nights, the organization’s mission has remained steadfast for 35 years: to unite, to educate, and to celebrate.

And in Buklod, that mission is crystal clear.

Join the Celebration

Whether you're a lover of culture, a student seeking new experiences, or someone simply curious about the ties that bind nations together — Buklod is a must-visit. For only P20, you get to journey through cultures, traditions, games, and performances that not only entertain but also inspire.

Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to explore heritage in its most interactive form.

Contact & Stay Connected

For more information on Buklod and the rest of the Amakyō events, follow UP Tomo-Kai’s official social media pages or reach out via the following:

Email (Executive Committee): uptkmatsuriadhoc@gmail.com

Email (Partnerships): uptomokai.linkages@gmail.com

Facebook: facebook.com/uptomokai

Instagram: instagram.com/uptomokai

In Unity, We Celebrate

Buklod is not merely an exhibit — it is a movement. A dance of cultures. A festival of shared stories. A living tribute to the enduring connection between Japan and the Philippines. As UP Tomo-Kai takes this leap into its next chapter, it calls on us all to remember the power of unity — in rhythm, in tradition, and in spirit.

See you at Alcantara Hall. Let us celebrate, connect, and be one — sa Buklod.

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